Big Improvements with Little Changes: Choosing Doorknobs

They’re one of the most important features of any room or house, but are also the most easily overlooked.

What are we talking about? The humble doorknob, of course.
But these key devices don’t need to be defined strictly by their utility (IE that they open and close a door as needed). They can also be a focal point for style and looks, as well as function.
Keep these tips in mind when choosing a doorknob:

Make sure you know what kind of lock you will be using

The world of door locks offers two options: mortise or cylindrical models. The former offer more security and are inserted into a pocket inside the door; the latter are flimsier but cheaper.
The key thing here is that if your door has a cutaway pocket in it, then you’ll want a mortise lock.

Don’t rule out door pulls

Instead of locks, you can consider using a door pull. These are simply handles that open the door, without using a lock or a latch. A popular location for these are in kitchen doors, an area where you don’t always have a hand free. To help keep the door closed, you can consider using spring hinges. This will give you the freedom to choose your doorknob based on fashion and not functionality!

Pick the right trim

Door features such as doorknobs and pulls come in a variety of trim styles. This lets you choose one that closely matches the décor of your room, or of the door itself.

Pick the right finish

The finish options usually come down to a chrome or brass finish, though you do have further options like matte or frosted. Colour picked, you can then decide on whether your doorknob should be polished or brushed – though polish can tend to scratch more easily. Polished door finishes will also show fingerprints, so keep that in mind when you make your big door decisions.

Remember how the door will work

And by this we mean: How will the door operate – by swinging or sliding? Remember, doors that swing will need to be hung on what are called butt hinges, unless they are heavier, in which case pivots may be the better option. As for sliding doors, these will need to be installed and hung on door tracks in the floor and ceiling. The variant on this is the pocket door, which is like a smaller version of the sliding door.

You have many fashion and functionality options when choosing your door, so choosing your doorknob should be no different! Exploring your options will allow you to keep the consistency of style throughout your entire home.